First stage of Wangetti Trail opens

Palm Cove to Ellis Beach

Jules Foxlee

Journalist

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The first stage of the Wangetti Trail is suitable for most ages and fitness. Image: Department of Tourism and Sport.

The first stage of the Wangetti Trail linking Palm Cove and Ellis Beach opened on Wednesday.

The 7.8km trail is suitable for most ages and fitness levels and will take walkers six hours, and cyclists 1.5 hours, to complete a return journey.

The full trail, which will eventually traverse 94km of endangered southern cassowary, rufous owl and grey goshawk habitat between Palm Cove and Port Douglas, is due to be completed in 2026.

Tourism Port Douglas Daintree Executive Officer Emma Tunnock said the trail was a win for adventure and nature tourism.

“The Wangetti Trail recognises the value and potential of adventure tourism,” she said.

“Globally, adventure tourism has a value of around $1.169 billion and is growing by 20 percent a year.”

“We have spectacular natural assets in our region and the Wangetti Trail provides a high-value adventure and nature tourism experience.”

Ms Tunnock said the trail, aimed at walkers and cyclists, aligned with the Douglas Shire’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

“The Douglas Shire was the first in Australia to become an eco-certified destination and we take that very seriously,” she said.

Tourism Minister and Member for Cairns Michael Healy said the project was centred around environment and culture and paid tribute to the Traditional Owners, the Djabugay Nation Native Title Claim Applicant, “who have been with us every step of the way, helping design the track and protect the cultural and environmental heritage.”

“We’ve seen helicopter airlifts to protect the forest, a Shadow Ranger employed to monitor construction, 20 tonnes of rubbish removed, and 1,800 native trees planted by the community,'' he said.

"The Wangetti Trail will deliver sustainable, long-term business opportunities for locals, the Traditional Owners, attracting thousands of new visitors to the region and injecting up to $390 million into the local economy,” Mr Healy added.

There are no water points on the trail which runs between Palm Cove Jetty to the Ellis Beach foreshore. It is recommended walkers bring three litres of water per person for a one-way trip and six for a return journey.

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